Scalloped Tomato Casserole
A comforting layered casserole combining fresh tomatoes, onions, and cheese-flavored crumbs, topped with sour cream and croutons, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Layer half of the peeled chopped tomatoes, salt, chopped onions, cheese-flavored cracker crumbs, and sugar in a lightly greased 8-inch square baking dish.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.
- Bake at 325°F for 20 minutes.
- Spread sour cream on top of the casserole.
- Sprinkle with seasoned croutons and drizzle with melted butter.
- Bake for an additional 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating herbs like basil or oregano into the layers. If you don't have cheese-flavored cracker crumbs, crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs mixed with a bit of cheese can be a great substitute. To enhance the richness, you might also try using a mix of sour cream and cream cheese. This dish can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Scalloped Tomato Casserole makes a delightful side dish for grilled meats or roasted vegetables. It pairs beautifully with Pea Salad(Low-Fat) for a light meal. For a complete vegetarian meal, serve it alongside a fresh green salad or crusty bread. Don't forget to garnish with fresh herbs for an extra touch of color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, ensuring they are covered to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Scalloped Tomato Casserole contains roughly 694 calories, with 4g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 62g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (59% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1199mg per serving (52% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Absolutely! Using fresh tomatoes can enhance the flavor of the casserole. Just make sure to peel and chop them before layering. You may need to adjust the salt and sugar levels based on the sweetness of the tomatoes, as fresh varieties can vary significantly.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make Scalloped Tomato Casserole gluten-free, substitute the cheese-flavored cracker crumbs and seasoned croutons with gluten-free alternatives. There are many brands available that cater specifically to gluten-free diets, ensuring you can enjoy this delicious dish without compromising.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Assemble the layers in the baking dish, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Just remember to add the sour cream, croutons, and melted butter just before baking to ensure they maintain their texture and flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).